Open source research, often referred to as OSINT (Open Source Intelligence), is a useful method for grasping global events. However, it includes various obstacles and dangers. This piece explores the frequent errors that can weaken the reliability and impact of open-source research, particularly in the environment of fast-moving worldwide events. Omitting the Original Source One of the basic rules of OSINT is transparency. The data should be open to the public and verifiable. Not linking to the original source can severely undermine the credibility of the research. During major occurrences, such as Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, many OSINT handles on social media platforms like Twitter uploaded videos without citing the original sources. This omission stripped away potentially crucial metadata, making confirming details harder. It's crucial for researchers to always link to the original sources to maintain transparency and verifiability. Permitting Advocacy to Affect Your I...